The political landscape in the Geelong region is set for a shake-up, with a prominent local business owner throwing his hat into the ring. Andy Pobjoy, the owner of the popular Geelong Piano Bar on Little Malop Street, has officially launched his bid for Liberal Party preselection in the federal seat of Corangamite.
A Businessman's Foray into Politics
Pobjoy, a well-known figure in Geelong's hospitality scene, confirmed his candidacy this week, signalling a move from the world of entertainment and small business to the federal political arena. His decision comes as the Liberal Party seeks a candidate to contest the marginal seat, which is currently held by Labor's Libby Coker. The seat of Corangamite, which takes in parts of Geelong, the Surf Coast, and the Bellarine Peninsula, is considered a key battleground in Victorian politics.
In announcing his preselection bid, Pobjoy pointed to his deep roots in the community and his hands-on experience as a business operator. "Running a small business, you're on the frontline of the economy," he stated, highlighting the challenges of staffing, rising costs, and regulatory burdens. He argues that this practical experience gives him a unique perspective on the issues facing local families and enterprises, which he would bring to parliament if successful.
Platform Focused on Local Issues
Pobjoy's campaign platform is expected to centre on several key areas directly impacting the Corangamite electorate. He has identified cost-of-living pressures, support for small businesses, and infrastructure development for the growing Geelong region as his primary concerns. His involvement in the local nightlife and hospitality sector also suggests a likely focus on policies affecting tourism, entertainment, and the vibrancy of city centres.
The preselection contest itself is a crucial internal process for the Liberal Party. Competing for the nomination shows Pobjoy's commitment to engaging with the party's local membership and presenting his vision for the seat's future. A successful preselection would position him as the Coalition's official candidate for the next federal election, challenging the incumbent MP.
Implications for Corangamite and Beyond
Pobjoy's entry into the race adds an interesting dynamic to the political scene. As a business owner rather than a career politician, he represents a different profile of candidate. His local name recognition, built through the Piano Bar, could be a significant asset in a community-focused electorate like Corangamite. However, he will need to translate that business success into a compelling political narrative that resonates with a broad cross-section of voters.
The move also underscores the ongoing importance of the Geelong and regional Victoria corridor in national politics. Marginal seats like Corangamite are often decisive in determining which party forms government. The Liberal Party's choice of candidate here will be closely watched as an indicator of its strategy to win back Victorian seats lost in previous elections. For now, Andy Pobjoy is focused on convincing local Liberal members that he is the right person for that task, hoping to swap the keys of the piano bar for a seat in the House of Representatives.
